Abstract

HCI often produces improved systems through co-creation with practitioners. However, evaluation methods are primarily researcher-led (i.e. not co-created with practitioners). As part of a games-based learning evaluation, we detail a novel co-creation method that produces evaluations on how technology influences learning. Based upon educational threshold concept theories, the Tricky Topic method supported the co-creation of knowledge-based evaluation questionnaires with trainers. The evaluation involved 116 new recruit police officers from three UK police forces who participated in a randomized-control trial. The Tricky Topic method provided insights of how the game significantly increased understanding p<.001 (moderate effect size) in comparison with face-to-face training. Tricky topic breakdowns identify increased tacit understanding (e.g. empathy, attention) after games training, and decreased tacit understanding (e.g. respect) after face-to face training. Finally, further research opportunities are discussed concerning co-created evaluation for valid and relevant deconstruction of participants’ understanding that allow designers to pinpoint systems-specific learning benefits.